Expert: William J Perkins - 2/12/2009

Question
QUESTION: I was given a clock partially dismantled, the mainspring had been
disconnected.  The clock  has a marking of "a s. haller" o reg. On its rear is
marked "S.Haller Made in Germany One Jewel Unadjusted", on the front
"Elgin".  The rear plate is removed, and the spring is connected to a plastic
spindle.  I have another white plastic spindle is  that has a metal "finger" that
etends out of the center of the spindle.

I"d like to figure out how to rewind the mainspring, reassemble the clock, and
make adjustments!  I've partially wound the mainspring, but the pendulum
will eventually stop


ANSWER: ONE REALLY NEEDS TO KNOW THE CONCTRUCTION AND WORKING OF A 400 DAY CLOCK BEFORE TAKING ONE ON.  AT THIS POINT OF YOUR ENDEAVOR I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT TO TELL YOU.  IF YOU WISH TO CONTINUE WITH THIS ENDEAVOR I SUGGEST YOU ACQUIRE A COPY OF CHARLES TERWILLGER'S BOOK,
'THE HOROLOVAR 400-DAY CLOCK REPAIR GUIDE'  I WISH YOU SUCCESS WJP

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: If it helps I do have pictures and more details at...

http://home.comcast.net/~ltetzner/400DayClock/400-Day-Clock.htm

I've reassembled the clock, but when I attempt to rewind it, it doesn't want to
stay wound i.e. the mainspring wants to unwind.  Not sure what is supposed
to stop this from happening.  (I thought that the sping with a finger did that
function, wound one directions it loosened around the brass gear allowing to
be wound up, in the reverse direction it would "clamp" on the center pin (the
more force on it the tighter it compresses around this spindle).  But not sure
if that is happening...

Answer
Based upon what you have told me and not seeing the clock, I suspect you have put the ratchet gear on, wrong side out.  I really do believe you should get the book I have recommended.  Your public library should be able to help you.  Again my best wishes for success, WJP